Up to 90km of training a week is what’s going into Carli Antonopoulos’s final preparations ahead of the aQuellé Midmar Mile which takes place in less than two weeks.

The 23-year-old finished second in last year’s race and while the swimmer who beat her to the title in 2024 – Tory Earle – will not be back to defend her title, Antonopoulos knows she will be provided a stiff challenge from the rest of this year’s elite women’s field.

Among them is two-time Olympic champion in the 10km marathon swim, Sharon van Rouwendaal from the Netherlands, who may have stopped training since topping the podium in Paris in August last year, but remains a massive threat.

Nevertheless, Antonopoulos remains confident in her preparation.

“My training and prep for Midmar has been going well,” she reckoned. “I’m back training with my squad in Pretoria after taking a short break and visiting my family in Cape Town.

“We have been putting in some good mileage, reaching up to 90km per week so hopefully the hard work will show at Midmar this year,” she added.

“I don’t really think much about the fact that I came second last year because this year is a new year with a bigger group of extremely talented girls so anything can happen on the day, but I feel confident with the work that we have done in the pool.”

Antonopoulos admitted that some of her main challengers could be her own teammates.

“I think this year the top five positions are going to be tough. Although Tory won’t be joining us this year, the TUKS distance group is bringing a strong group of girls and guys.

“I think my main competition this year will be Sharon van Rouwendaal, Stephanie Houtman, Callan Lotter and Catherine Van Rensburg,” she said.

“Sharon is an amazing swimmer and whether she’s been training or not, I still think she’ll give us a good go in the swim. She has done a lot of the Oceanman swims so she definitely still has loads of endurance and speed.”

While winning this year’s title would mean the world to her, the aQuellé Midmar Mile weekend is always about much more than just the competitive side for Antonopoulos.

“Midmar is such a fun event where it brings together so many friends and family,” she explained.

“My parents live in Cape Town and I’m currently swimming and studying in Pretoria so it’s always nice to just spend the weekend with my family. I get to watch my dad swim and he gets to watch me swim so it’s really nice to have the family support.”

Those still hoping to enter the aQuellé Midmar Mile, which takes place from 6-9 February, can do so at the dam on the day as online entries are now closed. Swimmers are advised to arrive early to avoid disappointment.

PHOTO CREDIT: Action Photo SA

Supplied.

FREE Posters for schools for Teen Suicide Prevention Week (9 - 16 February)
The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) is urging Educators, School Social Workers, Learner Support Agents and Principals to request free Teen Mental Health posters and brochures from SADAG. These valuable resources are designed to support schools and learners, reminding them they are not alone.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Suicide is among the top five causes of death for 15–19-year-olds. This alarming statistic highlights the critical need for Mental Health Awareness and accessible resources, especially in South Africa, where young people face numerous challenges that can impact their Mental Well-Being.

The posters and brochures can be displayed in high-visibility areas like tuck shop lines, classrooms, corridors and bathroom stall doors. They feature SADAG’s free contact numbers and contain practical tools and information that teachers can use to guide learners through Mental Health challenges.

The more learners we reach, the more lives we can impact. To request these free materials for your school or class, contact Roshni at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Show your company cares about youth Mental Health
SADAG is also calling on corporates to donate money to sponsor posters and brochures for a High School in need. We are looking for companies and organisations who are passionate about supporting learners to reach out to SADAG and pledge 1, 5 or 10 of these packs to Schools.

Whether it’s a R100, R1000, R5000 or more, these materials will support and help learners, teachers and communities. Show that your company cares about youth Mental Health and reach out to Roshni at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

Teen Suicide Prevention Week
During the second week of (9-16) February 2025, SADAG focuses on Teen Suicide Prevention Week, where we educate the youth about Depression, Anxiety, Trauma and Suicide Prevention and most importantly that there is help and support through our toll-free Helplines. Keep a lookout on SADAG’s social media pages, as we share various resources, and talks to help Teens, Teachers, Parents and Caregivers.

If you feel overwhelmed, need advice, or simply want someone to talk to, SADAG’s toll-free 24/7 helplines are available to everyone.

Reach out to us on the following numbers:
Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0800 567 567
Cipla Mental Health Helpline: 0800 456 789
Or visit our website www.sadag.org

Supplied.

6-Month Early Orthopaedic Screening Saves the Day!

Meet our little hero, Pickle!

At Hilton Veterinary Hospital, we’re thrilled to share Pickle’s story, where early screening saved the day. Thanks to early screening, this sweet pup was diagnosed early with Short Ulna Syndrome of Brachycephalic Breeds.

This proactive approach allowed us to intervene early, giving Pickle the best chance at a long, happy, and healthy life with minimal discomfort.

Early detection is the key to managing developmental conditions like Hip and Elbow Dysplasia, Osteochondritis Dissecans, and more!

In this case it was our loyal referring veterinarian, Dr Kath Sparks of MediVet Hillcrest, that made the early diagnosis here. It proves that early screening is beneficial in large and small breed dogs!!

Want to learn more? Speak to our resident Small Animal Surgeon, Dr. Sara Boyd, who has extensive experience in diagnosing and managing these conditions early, helping pets achieve the best possible quality of life.

Don’t wait until it’s too late! Call us at (033) 343 4602 or visit www.hiltonvethospital.co.za to book your screening.

Let’s give your furry friend the best chance at a pain-free future!

Over 20 degrees separate the freezing waters of Molveno, Italy, where Pretoria swimmer Reino von Wielligh has been competing, and the much warmer KwaZulu-Natal dam, where he’ll soon tackle the 16-Mile Charity Challenge at next month’s aQuellé Midmar Mile.

Von Wielligh recently represented South Africa at the sixth Ice Swimming World Championships, earning multiple podium finishes in an event that brings together elite swimmers from around the globe to compete in near-freezing temperatures

“The water temperature over the few days ranged from 1.1 degrees to 1.8 degrees Celsius with air temperature at most of my swims at -2 degrees Celsius,” explained the intrepid 31-year-old, who claimed three medals in Italy.

“I'm really chuffed placing with three overall medals, third in the 1000m, which is the main race of the ice swimming world champs in the sense that it’s where the king and queen of the ice are determined. So coming third there I'm really, really chuffed. And I was second in the 500m, and third overall in the 250m where I also set a new age group world record,” he added.

Von Wielligh has now set his sights on completing a mile distance in the ice in Berlin on Wednesday before heading to warmer climes back home.

While the water temperature at Midmar Dam will be far more forgiving, the challenge ahead remains formidable, with Von Wielligh due to swim eight miles on 6 February and another eight on 7 February, all to raise money for children’s cancer charity, Happy Bundles, and then adding several more miles during the main racing part of the weekend.

“It's nice to see everybody taking hands, getting together, raising money for charity, and especially the great work that Happy Bundles is doing... If people don't follow them on Instagram or Facebook I advise them to do so and just see the difference that these charities do make,” he explained.

For Von Wielligh, the charity aspect of the challenge is deeply motivating and this will be the eighth time he is taking on the 16-mile challenge.

“The ice swimming world champs was really nice, I achieved some personal goals and I could see my results from there, but doing the 16 mile is that one time in a year where it's not about you. It's about doing something good and giving something back to the community… I think that's really important and that's something that keeps me motivated to come back and do the 16-mile challenge every year,” he said.

As for the competitive side of the aQuellé Midmar Mile, Von Wielligh is eager to take on a new challenge. Having recently moved into the 31-and-over age category, he’s setting his sights on claiming the title in his new division. Among his competitors will be his coach, former international swimmer Mark Randall.

“It's going to be an interesting swim where the swimmer and the coach race against each other,” he reckoned.

“With my ice swimming results, being able to win the 31 and over category would really be rounding off my achievements so far for this year, if I can get that right.”

Those wishing to support Von Wielligh in raising funds for Happy Bundles can do so at: https://kydrin.co.za/goals/1942

Meanwhile, pre-entries for the aQuellé Midmar Mile remain open until Saturday, 25 January. Head to www.midmarmile.com for all the details.

Supplied.

Cowan House are proud to be hosting Social Media expert, Emma Sadleir, and encourage both our Cowan House and Hilton (or further afield!) Community to join us for her talk entitled: "Everything Parents need to know - a talk for parents, teens and anyone with a smartphone"

Bookings via:
https://www.quicket.co.za/events/297143-emma-sadleir-public-talk-everything-parents-need-to-know-midlands#/

We look forward to seeing you there.

Back to school and a fresh start to the new year — let's make it your best one yet!

Whether you’re a student or a parent, at The Local Choice Pharmacy HILTON HEALTH, we’ve got everything you need to stay focused and energised. Boost your mental clarity and wellness with trusted brands like KeenMind, Solal and Metagenics.

Shop these essentials today and set yourself up for success!

Visit at Hilton Health, Suite 1, Groundfloor, 3 Monzali Drive.

'No need to Janu-WORRY with specials like ours! Enjoy amazing deals on fresh, local produce and so much more at Rotunda Farmstall. Start your year with savings and the best quality goods, right here in Hilton!' from Rotunda Farm Stall.

 

Visit at The Rotunda Centre, 1 Cedara Road, Hilton

Or call 033 343 4205 / 1198

Cell 079 525 4589

 

Mendola is a multifunction venue which hosts a variety of events from conferences to weddings. We have packages that will suit your needs at a price that reflects our quality while still being affordable.

We have a 120 metres squared floor space that can offer the following seating options:
40 delegates - U Shaped Seating
80 delegates - Classroom Seating
120 delegates - Banquet Seating
120 delegates - Cinema Seating

Full day conference plan:
Morning tea and coffee with rusks on arrival
Mid-morning tea and coffee with freshly baked scones
2 course lunch served with soft drinks
Afternoon tea and coffee
It will cost R435 per delegate per day.

Contact us if there are any requirements regarding equipment and dietry requirements of the guests.

Email:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Tel:
079 287 1619

Website:
www.mendola.co.za 

 

SPAR KZN continues to proudly uplift women in sport in 2025 with their commitment to women’s athletics, schoolgirls’ hockey and netball in the province, celebrating incredible milestones,.

“We are referring to 2025 as our ‘big five’ year at SPAR KZN,” shared Menelisi Luthuli, Marketing Director for SPAR KZN. “The year is 2025 and we are applauding five years for our netball tournament, 15 years for our hockey challenge, and 35 years for our Durban Women’s race.”

Celebrating 35, the renowned Durban SPAR Women’s 10/5km Challenge is diarised for Sunday 22 June. The inaugural race that began in 1990 had a small field of 2,200 participants. With the start on the then-NMR Avenue, outside Kings Park Athletic Stadium, saw Colleen de Reuk historically breaking the tape on the athletic track in an impressive time of 34.16. Currently, Namibian Helalia Johannes holds the fastest 10km time, blitzing her way around the new fast, flat Durban route in 31.18 in 2019.

Over the 34 years, the women’s race has enjoyed encouraging 369,406 participants to share their morning running around Durban’s scenic spots. The biggest field competing in 2015 had a field of 17,607. Moulding the event into a top tier triumph that everyone looks forward to, Race Director, Brad Glasspoole and his team works tirelessly to create a smooth experience from start to finish. Preparations are well underway to make the 35th race a memorable one.

Tipping off the sporting year for SPAR KZN, the first of ten hockey tournaments takes place at Curro Hillcrest with the Highway Regional on Saturday 8 March. The tremendously successful SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey Challenge began in 2011, a vision of Tournament Director Les Galloway from SchoolGirlSport.

Fifteen years later, the tournament has had 130 victorious teams hoist their trophies after their regionals. The tournament is split up into ten regionals with a Grand Final rounding off the annual challenge. 32 schools have participated in the Grand Finals with three schools being crowned the overall Grand Finals champions, St Anne’s College, St Mary’s D.S.G. and Durban Girls’ College.

The newest addition to the KZN sporting stable, leading up to the 2023 Netball World Cup held in Cape Town, SPAR KZN and SchoolGirlSport created the only Fast 5’s tournament in the province for schoolgirls. In 2019 the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Fast 5’s Netball Challenge was launched. Beginning with only four tournaments, it quickly grew to seven after its well-received inception. Expanding to eight tournaments in the challenge’s fourth year, the Fast 5’s Challenge is looking forward to continuing growing in its fifth year, and beyond.

Eighteen teams have conquered their opponents in the 25 different regionals held since 2019 with Hillcrest High School; Durban Girls’ College and Dundee High School earning themselves double victories and Shayamoya Area Secondary School and Kingsway High School earning triple titles. Having wrapped up the 2024 season, Tournament Director, Marguerite Wagner is hard at work creating a memorable fifth year.

Luthuli concludes, ‘We worked out that over the 35 years, SPAR KZN has directly interacted and encouraged being healthier with just under 600,000 people through these three events – everyone from athletes to referees, coaches and managers and spectators. A truly phenomenal figure!’

For more info on all the events, please visit www.spar.co.za or find out more on the individual social media channels.

 

Top image: Recognising the sporting milestones being celebrated this year by SPAR KZN, SchoolGirlsSports Director representing both the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey and Netball Challenges, Les Galloway; SPAR KZN’s Advertising & Sponsorship Manager, Nozi Mkhize and the Race Director for the SPAR KZN Women’s Challenge, Brad Glasspoole are pictured at the announcement.

Below: Applauding an auspicious year, seen celebrating the sporting milestones taking place in 2025 for SPAR KZN are Nozi Mkhize (SPAR KZN’s Advertising & Sponsorship Manager), Les Galloway (SchoolGirlsSports Director for both the SPAR KZN Schoolgirls’ Hockey and Netball Challenges) and Brad Glasspoole (Race Director for SPAR KZN Women’s Challenge).

Pictures by Val Adamson

 

Supplied.

MiTH 29 January 2025

INFO: 082 331 7271

ENTRANCE: R50.00 - Cash or Zapper at the Door

VENUE: The Knoll Historic Guest Farm

8:45pm: Grace & the Big Guy

Grace Botha and Brian Bedingfield have put together a programme that eschews the somewhat preachy tendency of recent shows. On the assumption that there are no further life lessons to impart to their audience, they will just be making music for music's sake.

Front and centre will be excerpts from their hit show, Tracy & Joan. First performed some years back, that show included the first ever collaboration between Brian and Grace. The theme will be fleshed out with numbers from Carole & James, Bob & Adele, Lady & Bradley, Mark & Emmylou, and lastly, Trad & Trad. (Bottom image.)

7:45pm: The Music

Formed in June 2023, The Music is a dynamic three-piece band known for its eclectic fusion of jazz, Afro-soul, pop, and R&B influences. The collective consists of gifted multi-talented lead singer and songwriter, Nasiphi Ngewu; accomplished pianist and composer Chris Shuku; and last but not least, their guitarist, songwriter, and backup singer, Sandé Clarity.

With a shared vision of celebrating the richness of African culture and heritage, The Music delivers deeply emotive and thought-provoking performances, blending diverse genres to create a sound that is both innovative and rooted in tradition. Their music transcends borders, championing unity and empowerment while speaking against exploitation. The band’s goal is to provide a voice for the voiceless and create a platform for artistic expression, with the firm belief that music is a powerful tool for change and connection.

The Music’s sound is a reflection of their love for all genres, celebrating diversity and individuality, while keeping their focus on the timeless messages of hope, resilience, and unity. Through their heartfelt lyrics and distinctive sound, they continue to inspire listeners and remind the world of Africa’s strength, beauty, and potential. (Centre image.)

7pm: Robynne Dreyer

Robynne is a solo artist weaving together acoustic melodies with subtle influences of R&B and jazz. Singing since childhood, Robynne has always found music to be a sanctuary – a way to process emotions, connect, and communicate in ways words alone cannot.

Inspired by the transformative power of music, Robynne creates songs that explore the full spectrum of human experience, from joyful love ballads to raw reflections on pain, addiction, and hope. Through her work, she celebrates the beauty and worth of every emotion and story, reminding listeners that no matter how dark the moment, there is always hope for a brighter tomorrow.

Robynne’s music career began in Canada, where she released tracks on Spotify and Apple Music and performed at various events. However, when life brought her to South Africa, her focus shifted to pursuing other dreams. This change put her music career on hold, but her passion for creating and sharing music endured. Now, Robynne continues her musical journey quietly on a personal level, sharing her heartfelt compositions with friends. These settings allow her to connect deeply with listeners and keep music a meaningful part of her life.

Rooted in authenticity and purpose, Robynne Carla Dreyer’s music resonates with those seeking solace, connection, and the enduring promise of hope. Through her evolving journey, she remains committed to touching hearts and inspiring others to find beauty in every moment of life. (Top image.)

ABOUT MiTH: Arguably the KZN Midlands’ best-loved music venue, Music in The Hills (MiTH) is an opportunity for beginners, professionals, and passionate music fans to share the joy of music at The Knoll Historic Guest Farm. Visit www.mith.co.za for more details and directions. Musicians can contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for slots.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: MiTH takes place every second Wednesday at The Knoll Historic Guest Farm, Knoll Drive, Hilton. Doors open at 6pm and the music will kick off at 7pm. Entrance is R50 at the door. Food and soft drinks are available for sale. A cash bar is available.

DIRECTIONS TO MiTH: Take the N3 to Hilton, take the Hilton turnoff and go South into the Village (away from Hilton College). Travel 5,2km along Hilton Avenue (past two sets of traffic lights and Crossways Pub) and keep going straight as Hilton Avenue turns into Dennis Shepstone Drive. At the 5,2km mark, Knoll Drive will be on your right – the entrance to MiTH is the *second* entrance on your left into The Knoll Historic Guest Farm.

Our Shwe Shwe Range is here, combining beauty with practicality!

This collection features a variety of carefully crafted items, including coolers that are perfect for any occasion. Proudly South African, each piece tells a story of heritage and craftsmanship.

Visit us today to shop and experience the vibrant colours and designs that make the Shwe Shwe collection a must-have!

D3 Studio is at 37 Hilton Avenue, Hilton. Call ‪033 343 1765‬.

In appreciation of the generous support we receive from Pensioners, we have put together some value added benefits, exclusive to Pensioners, available every Tuesday!

Pensioners enjoy:
20% discount on all tyre services, incl wheel balancing, wheel alignment, puncture repairs, etc.
(If work is done on tyres previously purchased from us, the discount is 40%!!!)

Free suspension, brake, exhaust and tyre checks

Extra special deals on selected tyre products, changing from week to week.
Contact us or visit the store to find out more about these amazing offers!!

Mr X-haust Mr Tyre Hilton
3 Quarry Road

Tel
033 343 1357

Whatsapp
082 539 7716

Whilst we eagerly await the return of our Cowan House boys and girls, it was a pleasure to welcome some of our new staff to campus this past week.

Mr Mpumelelo Sithole - PE and Sports Coordinator
Mr James Hough - Headmaster
Ms Tammy Julyse - Grade 1 Teacher
Mr Nikhil Sewbran - Grade 4 Teacher Intern
Mr Alisdair Baines - Grade 6 Teacher

We also welcomed a number of new boarding staff, interns, TAs and facilitators to Cowan House and wish each one of you a happy and memorable time at our school.

Address: 11 Dennis Shepstone Drive, Hilton, KwaZulu-Natal

Contact: 033 343 3261

 

 

Grace College is overjoyed to celebrate the remarkable success of our Matric Class of 2024, who achieved a 100% pass rate in the IEB examinations. Even more impressive, 89% of the class earned Bachelor’s degree passes—an outstanding achievement that reflects their determination, hard work, and perseverance.

A special congratulations goes to our Dux learner and recipient of the Sinclair Trophy for the top Grace College learner in the IEB examinations, Reilly Shuttleworth, who achieved an exceptional 86.66% aggregate. We’re also incredibly proud to highlight our Top 5 achievers: Reilly Shuttleworth, Abhay Ghoorah, Carlene Burgess, Mandisa Kunene, and Ewan Du Plooy.

Among the many highlights, a number of learners achieved multiple subject distinctions. Reilly Shuttleworth and Abhay Ghoorah both earned an impressive seven distinctions each, while Carlene Burgess, Nirav Dhanesar, and Kimi-Anne Wilson achieved five distinctions each.

To the Class of 2024, we are beyond proud of all you’ve accomplished and excited for what the future holds for each of you. As you step into this next chapter, we encourage you to continue striving for excellence and to live out our school’s motto, “My utmost for His Highest.”

May God guide and bless you as you pursue your dreams—you’ve inspired us all, and we know you’ll continue to do amazing things!

Caption: Grace College Dux Learner and Sinclair Trophy recipient, Reilly Shuttleworth

I would like to thank Paint & Hardware Hyper, Midmar Tile & Hardware, Howick Build It, Kirby Construction and Athlone Circle Pick n Pay for support and donations for my Springbok Community Project at Lexden in PMB. The painting task ran for 5 days in January and was a successful project.

Written by Hayley Fisher of 1st Howick Scouts.

Happy New Year!

In 2024, I had the privilege of helping numerous individuals alleviate pain, reduce stress, and improve their overall well-being. Your wellness is my priority and I am looking forward to providing the same quality care in the year ahead. Whether you're seeking relief from stress, chronic pain, recovering from an injury, or simply wanting to unwind, the perfect treatment awaits you.

Why Choose a ‘Tranquility’ experience?
• Holistic approach: I am trained in a variety of techniques and offer a range of specific treatments to suit your needs.
• Personalized Treatment Plans: Each treatment is tailored to your specific needs, ensuring maximum comfort and effectiveness.
• ‘The Oasis’ : The serene and relaxing environment is designed to promote your relaxation and healing.

New Year, New You

As we look ahead to 2025, I encourage you to prioritize your well-being. Regular massage therapy can help you:
• Reduce stress and anxiety
• Improve sleep quality
• Boost your immune system
• Enhance flexibility and range of motion
• Alleviate pain and discomfort

Ready to experience the benefits of massage therapy? 

Book your appointment now and start your journey to optimal health and wellness.

Monthly inhouse specials are available.

I look forward to caring for you in the coming year!

Justin Hurd | 067 914 3647